Description
Mercedes-Benz 350 SE | 1976
Highlights:
- 3.5L V8 petrol engine with automatic transmission
- Original brown leatherette interior in clean condition
- Hard body with straight panels and chrome trim in good condition
- Factory equipment including power steering and disc brakes
- Valid technical inspection certificate
The seller offers for sale this 1976 Mercedes Benz 350 SE sedan, powered by a 3,500 cc V8 petrol engine paired with an automatic transmission. The vehicle is part of the renowned W116 generation, known for its innovation and build quality. The 350 SE is reported to be in strong mechanical and cosmetic shape, with valid technical inspection certificate and all driving functions in working order.
Mechanically, the car is in a good condition. The engine starts smoothly, shows no signs of smoke or unusual noise, and shifts through gears without issue. All lights, indicators, and controls are functional. The seller notes two minor items: the air conditioning requires recharging, and the fuel tank sensor needs attention.
The exterior bodywork is beautiful, with original paint and trim. Chrome components including bumpers, grilles, and trim strips are all complete and in polished condition. Panels are aligned, and lights and lenses are intact.
The interior retains its original brown leather or leatherette upholstery and matching brown carpet. It is described as being in good condition, including door panels, seats, and dashboard. All components are factory-fitted and appear intact. No replacements are noted, and the cabin shows little to no wear.
The Mercedes-Benz 350 SE belongs to the W116 series, the first line of vehicles officially referred to as the “S-Class” beginning in 1972. This generation marked a significant evolution in Mercedes’ engineering focus, introducing major safety and technology features that would define the brand. It included the pioneering use of ABS brakes (in later models), crumple zones, padded interior elements, and fuel tank repositioning for improved crash safety. The 350 SE variant, produced between 1972 and 1980, featured a fuel-injected 3.5L V8 engine delivering around 200 hp, offering a smooth and powerful driving experience with refined cruising abilities.
A standout in 1970s luxury sedans, the W116 was appreciated for its overbuilt construction, commanding road presence, and understated design. It combined executive comfort with autobahn-capable performance and a relatively advanced suspension setup for the time. The cabin emphasized ergonomics and restraint rather than opulence, and it was popular with both private owners and official state fleets.
Though not as collectible as the 6.9 version, the 350 SE offers many of the same design and engineering hallmarks at a more accessible price. Cars that remain in preserved condition—such as this one—are increasingly sought after by enthusiasts of 1970s European luxury. The fact that it still operates correctly, retains original trim, and shows no signs of corrosion enhances its appeal to buyers looking for a usable classic.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in Valencia province, Spain.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a Spanish registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.